Liquid crystal polyester pellet composition and injection molded product

Abstract

To provide an injection molded article which is suppressed in variation in color tone and to provide a liquid crystal polyester pellet composition which is a molding material thereof.SOLUTION: There is employed a liquid crystal polyester pellet composition which comprises a first pellet and a second pellet as a molding material of an injection molded article. The first pellet is a pellet containing a liquid crystal polyester and the second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment, an organic dye or carbon black and a liquid crystal polyester (provided that the second pellet is different from the first pellet). In addition, the volume ratio represented by the volume of the second pellet / the volume of the first pellet is 2.3 or less.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field] 【0001】 This invention relates to a liquid crystal polyester pellet composition and an injection molded article. [Background technology] 【0002】 Liquid crystal polyester is known for its high fluidity, heat resistance, and dimensional accuracy. Liquid crystal polyester is rarely used on its own; instead, it is used as a liquid crystal polyester composition containing fillers to meet the required properties (e.g., bending properties, impact resistance) for various applications. Molded articles made from such liquid crystal polyester compositions are known to be lightweight yet strong. Such liquid crystal polyester compositions are increasingly being used as molding materials in a wide range of applications. In particular, in the information and communication field, such as personal computers and mobile phones, there is a rapid increase in component integration, miniaturization, thinning, and low profile. In molded products in this information and communication field, the amount of liquid crystal polyester composition used is increasing significantly. 【0003】 Some molded products in the aforementioned information and communication field are required to be colored (colored molded products). One method for manufacturing these colored molded products is the masterbatch method. In the masterbatch method, a pellet mixture is prepared by mixing natural pellets with pellets containing a higher-than-usual concentration of pigment (masterbatch). Then, by using this pellet mixture as a molding material and performing injection molding, an injection molded product with the desired color tone can be obtained. This masterbatch method allows for the easy addition of high-concentration pigments to the base material, enabling efficient pigment addition, and is therefore used with various resin materials. In particular, it can easily manufacture colored molded products, which often require the production of many varieties, by mixing the base material with masterbatches containing different pigments. 【0004】 For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for producing a colored molded product by blending liquid crystal polymer resin pellets A and polyalkylene terephthalate resin pellets B containing a coloring agent and directly molding them. In Patent Document 1, a pellet containing a coloring agent and another thermoplastic resin that has relatively good compatibility with liquid crystal polymer resin is used as the masterbatch. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents] 【0005】 [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 06-248165 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve] 【0006】 However, injection-molded products manufactured using the masterbatch method have a problem in that variations in color tone tend to occur from one molded product to another, especially when a masterbatch containing a high concentration of pigment is used. This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and aims to provide an injection-molded product with reduced color variation, and a liquid crystal polyester pellet composition which is the molding material for the same. [Means for solving the problem] 【0007】 The inventors of this invention investigated the color tone of colored molded products using a liquid crystal polyester composition as a molding material. In their investigation, they found that when colored molded products were manufactured using the masterbatch method, there were cases where the variation in color tone from one molded product to another was large, and cases where the variation in color tone from one molded product to another was suppressed. Through further investigation, they found that these differences in color tone variation were related to the volume ratio of so-called natural pellets to masterbatch, and thus completed the present invention. To solve the above problems, the present invention encompasses the following embodiments. 【0008】 [1] A liquid crystal polyester pellet composition containing a first pellet and a second pellet, wherein the first pellet is a pellet containing a liquid crystal polyester, and the second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment, an organic dye or carbon black and a liquid crystal polyester (however, the second pellet is different from the first pellet), and the volume ratio represented by the second pellet volume / the first pellet volume is 2.3 or less. 【0009】 [2] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to [1], wherein the total content of the organic pigment, the organic dye and the carbon black in the second pellet is 1.5 to 40 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the liquid crystal polyester in the second pellet. 【0010】 [3] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to [1] or [2], wherein the content of the second pellet is 1 to 10 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the first pellet. 【0011】 [4] An injection molded product characterized by being produced using the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to any one of [1] to [3]. 【Advantages of the Invention】 【0012】 According to the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of the present invention, an injection molded product with reduced variation in color tone can be produced. According to the injection molded product of the present invention, the variation in color tone between molded products is suppressed. 【0013】 The "variation in color tone between molded products" referred to here means, for example, the fluctuation of each value for each molded product when measuring L*, a* and b* with a colorimeter for each molded product. 【Brief Description of the Drawings】 【0014】 [Figure 1] It is a graph showing the relationship between the volume ratio represented by "second pellet volume / first pellet volume" and the standard deviation of lightness (L*σ). [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0015】 (Liquid crystal polyester pellet composition) A liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to one aspect of the present invention contains a first pellet and a second pellet. The first pellet is a pellet containing liquid crystal polyester. The second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment, organic dye, or carbon black and a liquid crystal polyester (however, the second pellet is different from the first pellet). In the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to this embodiment, the volume ratio expressed as the volume of the second pellet / the volume of the first pellet is 2.3 or less. 【0016】 One embodiment of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition is a pellet mixture containing a first pellet and a second pellet. In this embodiment, the first pellet is a so-called natural pellet, and the second pellet is a masterbatch. 【0017】 The first and second pellets will be described in detail below. In this embodiment, the first pellet and the second pellet are obtained, as described later, for example, by cutting and pelletizing strands produced by extruding a liquid crystal polyester pellet composition while taking them up. The first pellet and the second pellet each refer to an aggregate consisting of multiple pellets (100 or more pellets). The components contained in each pellet (liquid crystal polyester, organic pigment, organic dye or carbon black, and any other optional components) will be explained in detail later. 【0018】 <First Pellet> In one embodiment of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition, the first pellet is a pellet containing liquid crystal polyester. Each pellet constituting the first pellet contains liquid crystal polyester. In the first pellet, the liquid crystal polyester content is, for example, 50% by mass or more, relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the first pellet, and may be 50-90% by mass, 55-80% by mass, or 55-70% by mass. 【0019】 The first pellet may contain other optional components in addition to liquid crystal polyester. Examples of other optional components include fillers, resins other than liquid crystal polyester, colorants, and additives well known in the art. The filler may be an inorganic or organic filler, and the choice is made appropriately depending on the application. From the viewpoint of providing mechanical strength, it is preferable to use an inorganic filler. One or more types of fillers may be used. If the first pellet contains a filler, the filler content is preferably, for example, 30 to 80 parts by mass, more preferably 40 to 75 parts by mass, and even more preferably 50 to 70 parts by mass, based on 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester in the first pellet. Furthermore, if the first pellet contains filler, the filler content is, for example, 50% by mass or less of the total mass (100% by mass) of the first pellet, and may be 10-50% by mass, 20-45% by mass, or 30-45% by mass. 【0020】 The first pellet may further contain a coloring agent. In this embodiment, the first pellet is defined as a pellet in which the coloring agent content is 0% by mass or more and less than 5% by mass relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the first pellet. That is, among the multiple pellets constituting the pellet mixture, the first pellet is defined as a pellet that does not contain a coloring agent and contains liquid crystal polyester, and a pellet that contains a coloring agent content of more than 0% by mass and less than 5% by mass and also contains liquid crystal polyester. Furthermore, one or more colorants may be used. The term "colorants" here does not include organic pigments, organic dyes, or carbon black. 【0021】 The first pellet may consist of only one type of pellet, or it may consist of two or more types of pellets. The case where the first pellet consists of only one type of pellet includes the case of a pellet that does not contain a coloring agent, and the case of a pellet in which the coloring agent content is greater than 0% by mass and less than 5% by mass. The case where the first pellet consists of two or more types of pellets includes: two or more types of pellets that do not contain a coloring agent; two or more types of pellets in which the coloring agent content is greater than 0% by mass but less than 5% by mass; a mixed pellet of pellets that do not contain a coloring agent and pellets in which the coloring agent content is greater than 0% by mass but less than 5% by mass; pellets of different types or content of liquid crystal polyester; and pellets of different types or content of coloring agents. 【0022】 <Second Pellet> In one embodiment of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition, the second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment, an organic dye, or carbon black and a liquid crystal polyester (however, the second pellet is different from the first pellet). Each pellet constituting the second pellet contains an organic pigment, an organic dye, or carbon black and a liquid crystal polyester. The second pellet is a different pellet from the first pellet. The first pellet and the second pellet differ in whether or not they contain organic pigments, organic dyes, or carbon black. If the first pellet is removed from the pellet mixture, the second pellet is made from the remaining pellets, and contains at least one selected from the group consisting of organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black, and a liquid crystal polyester. In this embodiment, the second pellet is preferably a pellet in which the total content of organic pigment, organic dye, and carbon black is 0.5% by mass or more relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the second pellet. 【0023】 The total content of organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black in the second pellet is determined appropriately according to their type or requirements, and is preferably more than 0% by mass and 30% by mass or less, and more than 0.5% by mass and 30% by mass or less, relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the second pellet, and may be 1 to 30% by mass, 3 to 25% by mass, or 5 to 20% by mass. 【0024】 In the second pellet, the liquid crystal polyester content is, for example, 50% by mass or more, relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the second pellet, and may be 60-99% by mass, 70-97% by mass, or 75-95% by mass. 【0025】 Furthermore, the total content of organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black in the second pellet is appropriately determined according to their type or requirements, and is preferably, for example, 1.5 to 40 parts by mass, more preferably 5 to 35 parts by mass, even more preferably 10 to 30 parts by mass, and particularly preferably 10 to 25 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester in the second pellet. If the total content of organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black is above the lower limit of the preferred range mentioned above, the molded product will be more easily colored. On the other hand, if it is below the upper limit of the preferred range mentioned above, the pigments and the like will be more easily dispersed during processing. 【0026】 The second pellet may contain an organic pigment, organic dye, or carbon black, and liquid crystal polyester, in addition to any other optional components. These other optional components include fillers, resins other than liquid crystal polyester, other colorants, and additives well known in the art. The second pellet is used in common by mixing it with various different first pellets. For this reason, a lower filler content in the second pellet improves its versatility. The filler content in the second pellet is preferably, for example, 10 parts by mass or less, and more preferably 5 parts by mass or less, per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester in the second pellet. 【0027】 The second pellet may consist of only one type of pellet, or it may consist of two or more types of pellets. The case where the second pellet consists of two or more types of pellets includes: a mixed pellet of a pellet containing an organic pigment and a pellet containing an organic dye; a mixed pellet of a pellet containing an organic pigment and a pellet containing carbon black; a mixed pellet of a pellet containing an organic dye and a pellet containing carbon black; a mixed pellet of a pellet containing an organic pigment, a pellet containing an organic dye, and a pellet containing carbon black; pellets of different types or amounts of liquid crystal polyester; and pellets of different types or amounts of organic pigment, organic dye, or carbon black. 【0028】 <Pellet mixture> In the pellet mixture, the total content of the first pellet and the second pellet is, for example, 90% by mass or more, 95% by mass or more, 99% by mass or more, or 100% by mass, based on the total mass (100% by mass) of the pellet mixture. 【0029】 The respective amounts of the first pellet and the second pellet in the pellet mixture can be appropriately determined according to the concentration and type of coloring agent (organic pigment, organic dye, carbon black) contained in the second pellet. For example, the content of the first pellet in the pellet mixture is, for example, 80% by mass or more of the total mass (100% by mass) of the pellet mixture, and may be 80-99.9% by mass, 85-99.9% by mass, 90-99.5% by mass, 93-99.5% by mass, or 95-99% by mass. For example, the content of the second pellet in the pellet mixture is, for example, 20% by mass or less of the total mass (100% by mass) of the pellet mixture, and may be 0.1 to 20% by mass, 0.1 to 15% by mass, 0.5 to 10% by mass, 0.5 to 7% by mass, or 1 to 5% by mass. 【0030】 Furthermore, the mixing ratio of the first pellet to the second pellet in the pellet mixture can be determined according to the desired color tone of the injection-molded product. For example, the content of the second pellet in the pellet mixture is preferably 1 to 10 parts by mass, more preferably 2 to 8 parts by mass, and even more preferably 4 to 6 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of the first pellet. 【0031】 [Volume ratio of the first pellet to the second pellet] In one embodiment of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition, the volume ratio of the first pellet to the second pellet, expressed as the volume of the second pellet / the volume of the first pellet, is 2.3 or less, preferably 0.9 to 2.2, and more preferably 0.95 to 2.1. If the volume ratio is below the upper limit mentioned above, variations in color tone between molded products are suppressed. On the other hand, if it is above the lower limit of the preferred range mentioned above, the generation of static electricity is suppressed, improving the handling of the pellets. 【0032】 The volume ratio of the first pellet to the second pellet can be determined by the following procedure. Procedure 1) From the first pellet, randomly select 100 or more pellets and measure their total weight. Similarly, from the second pellet, randomly select 100 or more pellets and measure their total weight. Procedure 2) Using the first pellet as the molding material, a molded product of a predetermined shape is obtained by injection molding. The specific gravity of the obtained molded product is then measured. Similarly, using the second pellet as the molding material, a molded product of a predetermined shape is obtained by injection molding. The specific gravity of the obtained molded product is then measured. Step 3) The total volume of 100 or more pellets constituting the first pellet is calculated from the total weight of 100 or more pellets constituting the first pellet measured in Step 1 and the specific gravity of the molded product made from the first pellet as measured in Step 2, by the formula: total weight of 100 or more pellets / specific gravity of the molded product. Similarly, the total volume of 100 or more pellets constituting the second pellet is calculated from the total weight of 100 or more pellets constituting the second pellet measured in Step 1 and the specific gravity of the molded product made from the second pellet as measured in Step 2, by the formula: total weight of 100 or more pellets / specific gravity of the molded product. Step 4) Divide the total volume of 100 or more pellets that make up the second pellet, calculated in Step 3, by the total volume of 100 or more pellets that make up the first pellet to obtain the volume ratio expressed as Volume of the second pellet / Volume of the first pellet. 【0033】 For example, the total weight of 100 pellets constituting the first pellet is 1.0 to 5.0 g. The specific gravity of a molded product using the first pellet as the molding material is 1.3 to 2.5. The total volume of 100 pellets constituting the first pellet is 0.4 to 4.0 cm³. 3 That is the case. For example, the total weight of 100 pellets constituting the second pellet is 1.0 to 5.0 g. The specific gravity of a molded product using the second pellet as the molding material is 1.3 to 2.5. The total volume of 100 pellets constituting the second pellet is 0.4 to 4.0 cm³. 3 That is the case. 【0034】 In this embodiment, the first and second pellets are obtained, for example, by cutting a strand produced by extruding a liquid crystal polyester pellet composition while drawing it back into pellets. In this case, the shape of each individual pellet is cylindrical. Furthermore, as described above, since pelletization is performed while an external force is applied to the strand, the shape of the cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the pellet is elliptical. The term "elliptical shape" as used here encompasses not only the shape of a curve defined as the locus of points whose sum of distances from two fixed points is constant, but also roughly elliptical shapes that are close to the aforementioned defined curve. 【0035】 The dimensions of each pellet are as follows: For example, for the first pellet, the length in the pellet axis direction is 2-4 mm, the major axis of the cross-section perpendicular to the pellet axis direction is 1-5 mm, and the minor axis of the same cross-section is 1-3 mm. For the second pellet, the length in the pellet axis direction is 2-4 mm, the major axis of the cross-section perpendicular to the pellet axis direction is 1-5 mm, and the minor axis of the same cross-section is 1-3 mm. 【0036】 The volume ratio between the first pellet and the second pellet can be controlled by adjusting the dimensions of each pellet. For example, the dimensions of the pellets can be adjusted by appropriately changing the extrusion conditions (draw strength, temperature, etc.) and strand cutting conditions (speed of the pelletizer's rotating blades, etc.) of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition during pellet manufacturing. 【0037】 In this embodiment, the first pellet and the second pellet are distinguished from the fine powder and dust generated from each pellet. The fine particles and dust generated from each pellet refer, for example, to those with a volume-average particle size of 500 μm or less. 【0038】 ≪Regarding the ingredients contained in the first and second pellets≫ In the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of this embodiment, the first pellet is a pellet containing liquid crystal polyester, and may optionally contain other optional components besides liquid crystal polyester. The second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment, an organic dye, or carbon black and liquid crystal polyester, and may optionally contain other optional components besides these. 【0039】 • About liquid crystal polyester In this embodiment, the liquid crystal polyester is preferably a polyester that exhibits liquid crystal properties in a molten state and melts at a temperature of 450°C or lower. Furthermore, the preferred liquid crystal polyester contained in the pellets in this embodiment may be liquid crystal polyesteramide, liquid crystal polyester ether, liquid crystal polyester carbonate, or liquid crystal polyester imide. The liquid crystal polyester used here is preferably a fully aromatic liquid crystal polyester, which is made using only aromatic compounds as raw material monomers. 【0040】 Typical examples of such liquid crystal polyesters include those obtained by polymerizing (polycondensing) an aromatic hydroxycarboxylic acid with an aromatic dicarboxylic acid and at least one compound selected from the group consisting of aromatic diols, aromatic hydroxyamines, and aromatic diamines; those obtained by polymerizing multiple aromatic hydroxycarboxylic acids; those obtained by polymerizing an aromatic dicarboxylic acid with at least one compound selected from the group consisting of aromatic diols, aromatic hydroxyamines, and aromatic diamines; and those obtained by polymerizing a polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate with an aromatic hydroxycarboxylic acid. Here, aromatic hydroxycarboxylic acids, aromatic dicarboxylic acids, aromatic diols, aromatic hydroxyamines, and aromatic diamines may each be independently replaced in part or in whole by their polymerizable derivatives. 【0041】 Examples of polymerizable derivatives of compounds having a carboxyl group, such as aromatic hydroxycarboxylic acids and aromatic dicarboxylic acids, include those obtained by converting the carboxyl group into an alkoxycarbonyl group or an aryloxycarbonyl group (esters), those obtained by converting the carboxyl group into a halocarbonyl group (acid halides), and those obtained by converting the carboxyl group into an acyloxycarbonyl group (acid anhydrides). Examples of polymerizable derivatives of compounds having a hydroxyl group, such as aromatic hydroxycarboxylic acids, aromatic diols, and aromatic hydroxyamines, include those obtained by acylating the hydroxyl group to convert it into an acyloxyl group (acylates). Examples of polymerizable derivatives of compounds having an amino group, such as aromatic hydroxyamines and aromatic diamines, include those obtained by acylating the amino group to convert it into an acylamino group (acylates). 【0042】 Such a liquid crystal polyester preferably has a repeating unit represented by the following formula (1) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "repeating unit (1)"), and more preferably has the repeating unit (1), a repeating unit represented by the following formula (2) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "repeating unit (2)"), and a repeating unit represented by the following formula (3) (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "repeating unit (3)"). 【0043】 (1) -O-Ar 1 -CO- (2) -CO-Ar 2 -CO- (3) -X-Ar 3 -Y- 【0044】 (Ar 1 represents a phenylene group, a naphthylene group or a biphenylylene group. Ar 2 and Ar 3 each independently represents a phenylene group, a naphthylene group, a biphenylylene group or a group represented by the following formula (4). X and Y each independently represents an oxygen atom or an imino group (-NH-). Ar 1 , Ar 2 or Ar 3The hydrogen atoms in the aforementioned group may each be independently substituted with a halogen atom, an alkyl group, or an aryl group. 【0045】 (4)-Ar 4 -Z-Ar 5 - 【0046】 (Ar 4 and Ar 5 Each of these independently represents either a phenylene group or a naphthylene group. Z represents an oxygen atom, a sulfur atom, a carbonyl group, a sulfonyl group, or an alkylidene group. 【0047】 Examples of the halogen atoms include fluorine atoms, chlorine atoms, bromine atoms, and iodine atoms. Examples of the alkyl groups include methyl groups, ethyl groups, n-propyl groups, isopropyl groups, n-butyl groups, isobutyl groups, s-butyl groups, t-butyl groups, n-hexyl groups, 2-ethylhexyl groups, n-octyl groups, and n-decyl groups, with a preferred number of carbon atoms of 1 to 10. Examples of the aryl groups include phenyl groups, o-tolyl groups, m-tolyl groups, p-tolyl groups, 1-naphthyl groups, and 2-naphthyl groups, with a preferred number of carbon atoms of 6 to 20. If the hydrogen atoms are substituted with these groups, the number of them is Ar 1 Ar 2 or Ar 3 For each of the groups represented by the above, there are preferably two or fewer, and more preferably one or fewer, independently. 【0048】 Examples of the alkylidene group include a methylene group, an ethylidene group, an isopropylidene group, an n-butylidene group, and a 2-ethylhexylidene group, and the number of carbon atoms is preferably 1 to 10. 【0049】 The repeating unit (1) is a repeating unit derived from a predetermined aromatic hydroxycarboxylic acid. The repeating unit (1) is Ar 1 Those in which is a 1,4-phenylene group (a repeating unit derived from p-hydroxybenzoic acid), and Ar 1It is preferable that the group is a 2,6-naphthylene group (a repeating unit derived from 6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid). 【0050】 In this specification, "derived from" means that, in order for the raw material monomer to polymerize, the chemical structure of the functional group contributing to polymerization changes, but no other structural changes occur. 【0051】 The repeating unit (2) is a repeating unit derived from a predetermined aromatic dicarboxylic acid. The repeating unit (2) is Ar 2 Those in which the group is a 1,4-phenylene group (a repeating unit derived from terephthalic acid), Ar 2 Those in which the group is a 1,3-phenylene group (a repeating unit derived from isophthalic acid), Ar 2 Those in which are 2,6-naphthylene groups (repeating units derived from 2,6-naphthalenedicarboxylic acid), and Ar 2 It is preferable that the group is a diphenyl ether-4,4'-diyl group (a repeating unit derived from diphenyl ether-4,4'-dicarboxylic acid). 【0052】 The repeating unit (3) is a repeating unit derived from a predetermined aromatic diol, aromatic hydroxylamine, or aromatic diamine. The repeating unit (3) may be Ar 3 Those in which is a 1,4-phenylene group (a repeating unit derived from hydroquinone, p-aminophenol, or p-phenylenediamine), and Ar 3 It is preferable that the group is a 4,4'-biphenylylene group (a repeating unit derived from 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl, 4-amino-4'-hydroxybiphenyl, or 4,4'-diaminobiphenyl). 【0053】 The content of repeating units (1) is preferably 30 mol% or more, more preferably 30 mol% to 80 mol%, even more preferably 40 mol% to 70 mol%, and particularly preferably 45 mol% to 65 mol%. 【0054】 The content of repeating units (2) is preferably 35 mol% or less, more preferably 10 mol% to 35 mol%, even more preferably 15 mol% to 30 mol%, and particularly preferably 17.5 mol% to 27.5 mol% based on the total amount of all repeating units. 【0055】 The content of repeating units (3) is preferably 35 mol% or less, more preferably 10 mol% to 35 mol%, even more preferably 15 mol% to 30 mol%, and particularly preferably 17.5 mol% to 27.5 mol% based on the total amount of all repeating units. 【0056】 The higher the content of repeating units (1), the easier it is to improve melt fluidity, heat resistance, strength, and rigidity. However, if the content is too high, the melting temperature and melt viscosity tend to increase, and the temperature required for molding tends to increase. 【0057】 The ratio of the content of repeating unit (2) to the content of repeating unit (3) is expressed as [content of repeating unit (2)] / [content of repeating unit (3)] (moles / moles), and is preferably 0.9 / 1 to 1 / 0.9, more preferably 0.95 / 1 to 1 / 0.95, and even more preferably 0.98 / 1 to 1 / 0.98. 【0058】 Furthermore, the suitable liquid crystal polyester contained in the pellets in this embodiment may have two or more types of repeating units (1) to (3) independently. In addition, the liquid crystal polyester may have repeating units other than repeating units (1) to (3), but the content of such units is preferably 10 mol% or less, and more preferably 5 mol% or less, relative to the total amount of all repeating units. 【0059】 Such liquid crystal polyester is preferably characterized by having repeating units (3) in which X and Y are each oxygen atoms, that is, having repeating units derived from a predetermined aromatic diol, because this tends to result in a lower melt viscosity, and is more preferably characterized by having only repeating units (3) in which X and Y are each oxygen atoms. 【0060】 Such liquid crystal polyesters are preferably manufactured by melt polymerization of raw material monomers corresponding to the repeating units that constitute them, and then solid-phase polymerization of the resulting polymer (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "prepolymer"). This makes it possible to manufacture high molecular weight liquid crystal polyesters with high heat resistance, strength, and rigidity with good operability. Melt polymerization may be carried out in the presence of a catalyst. Examples of catalysts include metal compounds such as magnesium acetate, stannous acetate, tetrabutyl titanate, lead acetate, sodium acetate, potassium acetate, and antimony trioxide, as well as nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds such as 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine and 1-methylimidazole, with nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds being preferred. 【0061】 In this embodiment, the preferred flow start temperature of the liquid crystal polyester contained in the pellets is preferably 260°C or higher, more preferably 260°C to 400°C, and even more preferably 260°C to 380°C. The higher the flow initiation temperature of the liquid crystal polyester, the more its heat resistance and strength tend to improve. On the other hand, when the flow initiation temperature of the liquid crystal polyester exceeds 400°C, the melting temperature and melt viscosity tend to increase. Therefore, the temperature required for molding the liquid crystal polyester tends to increase. 【0062】 In this specification, the flow initiation temperature of liquid crystal polyester is also called the flow temperature or fluid temperature, and is a temperature that serves as an indicator of the molecular weight of the liquid crystal polyester (see Naoyuki Koide (ed.), "Liquid Crystal Polymers - Synthesis, Molding, and Applications," CMC Corporation, June 5, 1987, p. 95). The flow initiation temperature was determined using a capillary rheometer, measuring liquid crystal polyester at 9.8 MPa (100 kg / cm²). 2 This is the temperature at which the viscosity is 4800 Pa·s (48000 poise) when melted while increasing the temperature at a rate of 4°C / min under a load and extruded from a nozzle with an inner diameter of 1 mm and a length of 10 mm. 【0063】 In this embodiment, the liquid crystal polyester may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. When using two or more types of liquid crystal polyester in combination, it is preferable to use those with different flow initiation temperatures, as described later. The first pellet and the second pellet may contain the same liquid crystal polyester, or they may contain different liquid crystal polyesters. From the viewpoint of compatibility, it is preferable that the first pellet and the second pellet contain the same liquid crystal polyester. 【0064】 • Regarding organic pigments, organic dyes, or carbon black In this embodiment, the second pellet contains an organic pigment, an organic dye, or carbon black, and the second pellet serves as the masterbatch. The coloring agent contained in the second pellet includes at least one selected from the group consisting of organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black. From the viewpoint of heat resistance, at least one selected from the group consisting of organic pigments and carbon black is preferred as the coloring agent used in the second pellet. 【0065】 ·· Organic pigments Examples of organic pigments include perylene derivatives, quinacdrin derivatives, anthraquinone derivatives, phthalocyanine derivatives, triazine derivatives, and dichlorophenylenebisnaphthalenecarboamide derivatives. From the viewpoint of pellet colorability, the particle size of the organic pigment is preferably 250 nm or less, and more preferably 100 nm or less. The particle size of the organic pigment here is measured by direct observation with a scanning electron microscope, laser diffraction, or laser scattering. Also, as the organic pigment, from the viewpoint of heat resistance, those having a decomposition start temperature (5% by mass weight loss) of 400°C or higher are preferable, those having a decomposition start temperature (5% by mass weight loss) of 420°C or higher are more preferable, and those having a higher decomposition start temperature (5% by mass weight loss) are more preferable. Also, as the organic pigment, from the viewpoint of heat resistance, those having a melting point of 250°C or higher are preferable, those having a melting point of 275°C or higher are more preferable, and those having a higher melting point are more preferable. 【0066】 ·· Carbon black Carbon black is used as a black pigment. For example, it is possible to manufacture a gray molded product by mixing a white natural pellet and a masterbatch containing carbon black. 【0067】 · Regarding optional components Examples of the optional components include fillers, resins other than liquid crystal polyester, and additives well-known in the art. 【0068】 ·· Filler The filler may be an inorganic filler or an organic filler, and is appropriately determined according to the application and the like. From the viewpoint of imparting mechanical strength, it is preferable to use an inorganic filler, and it is particularly preferably used for the first pellet. 【0069】 [Inorganic filler] In the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition (pellet mixture) of the present embodiment, the content of the inorganic filler is preferably more than 0 part by mass and 120 parts by mass or less, more preferably 5 parts by mass or more and 110 parts by mass or less, still more preferably 20 parts by mass or more and 105 parts by mass or less, and particularly preferably 30 parts by mass or more and 105 parts by mass or less with respect to 100 parts by mass of the liquid crystal polyester. 【0070】 The inorganic filler used in the present embodiment may be a fibrous filler, a plate-like filler, or a granular filler. 【0071】 Examples of fibrous fillers include glass fibers; carbon fibers such as pan-carbon fibers and pitch-carbon fibers; ceramic fibers such as silica fibers, alumina fibers, and silica-alumina fibers; and metal fibers such as stainless steel fibers. Whiskers such as potassium titanate whiskers, barium titanate whiskers, wollastonite whiskers, aluminum borate whiskers, silicon nitride whiskers, and silicon carbide whiskers are also used. Among these, glass fibers are preferred. 【0072】 Examples of plate-shaped fillers include talc, mica, graphite, wollastonite, glass flakes, barium sulfate, and calcium carbonate. The mica may be muscovite, phlogopite, fluorphlogopite, or tetrasilicon mica. Among these, talc or mica are preferred. 【0073】 Examples of granular fillers include silica, alumina, titanium oxide, glass beads, glass balloons, boron nitride, silicon carbide, and calcium carbonate. 【0074】 The inorganic filler used in this embodiment is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of glass fiber, talc, and mica, with glass fiber being more preferred. 【0075】 Below, we will describe glass fibers as a fibrous filler. 【0076】 Examples of glass fibers include long-fiber chopped glass fibers and short-fiber milled glass fibers, which are manufactured using various methods. In this embodiment, two or more of these types can be used in combination. 【0077】 Examples of the glass fibers mentioned above include E-glass, A-glass, C-glass, D-glass, AR-glass, R-glass, S-glass, or mixtures thereof. Among these, E-glass is preferred because it has excellent strength and is readily available. 【0078】 As the glass fibers mentioned above, weakly alkaline fibers are preferable because they are superior in terms of mechanical strength (tensile strength and Izod impact strength). In particular, glass fibers with a silicon dioxide content of 50% to 80% by mass relative to the total mass of the glass fibers are preferred, and glass fibers with a silicon dioxide content of 65% to 77% by mass are more preferred. 【0079】 The glass fibers mentioned above may be fibers treated with a coupling agent such as a silane-based coupling agent or a titanium-based coupling agent, if necessary. 【0080】 The glass fibers may be coated with thermoplastic resins such as urethane resin, acrylic resin, or ethylene / vinyl acetate copolymer, or with thermosetting resins such as epoxy resin. Furthermore, the glass fibers may be treated with a consolidating agent. 【0081】 The number-average fiber length of the glass fibers used as raw materials for melt kneading is preferably 30 μm or more and 5000 μm or less. When the number-average fiber length of the glass fibers is 30 μm or more, the effect as a reinforcing material in the molded article obtained from the pellets containing glass fibers is improved compared to when the number-average fiber length is less than 30 μm. The number-average fiber length of the glass fibers is more preferably 50 μm or more, and even more preferably 70 μm or more. 【0082】 Furthermore, when the number-average fiber length of the glass fibers is 5000 μm or less, it becomes easier to adjust the number-average fiber length of the glass fibers in the pellet compared to when the number-average fiber length exceeds 5000 μm, resulting in improved thin-walled fluidity. A number-average fiber length of 3500 μm or less is more preferable for the glass fibers. 【0083】 The fiber diameter (single fiber diameter) of the glass fibers used as raw materials for melt kneading is preferably 5 μm or more and 20 μm or less. When the fiber diameter of the glass fibers is 5 μm or more, handling becomes easier and production efficiency can be improved compared to when the fiber diameter is less than 5 μm. The fiber diameter of the glass fibers is more preferably 5.5 μm or more, and even more preferably 6 μm or more. Furthermore, when the fiber diameter of the glass fibers is 20 μm or less, the fluidity of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition is improved compared to when the fiber diameter exceeds 20 μm, and the effect of the glass fibers as a reinforcing material for the molded article is further improved. The fiber diameter of the glass fibers is more preferably 17 μm or less, and even more preferably 15 μm or less. 【0084】 Furthermore, the glass fiber diameter remains substantially unchanged even after melting and kneading. 【0085】 In this specification, unless otherwise specified, "number-average fiber length of the raw glass fibers" refers to the value measured by the method described in JIS R3420 "7.8 Length of Chopped Strands". 【0086】 Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, "fiber diameter of the glass fiber used as raw material" refers to the value measured by "Method A" among the methods described in JIS R3420 "7.6 Single Fiber Diameter". 【0087】 In this embodiment, the number-average fiber length of the glass fibers in the pellets is preferably 20 μm or more, more preferably 30 μm or more, and even more preferably 40 μm or more. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of the fluidity of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition, it is preferably 1000 μm or less, more preferably 800 μm or less, and even more preferably 500 μm or less. 【0088】 Here, the number-average fiber length of the glass fibers in the pellet can be measured by the following method. 5g of pellet was heated in air in a muffle furnace at 600°C for 8 hours to remove the resin. More than 500 glass fibers were randomly selected from the remaining glass fibers using a video microscope (Keyence VH1000), and the fiber length of the selected glass fibers was measured at a magnification of 100x. Here, the number-average fiber length Ln can be calculated by the following formula. Ln = Σ(Ni × Li) / Σ(Ni) 【0089】 Li is the measured fiber length of the glass fiber. Ni is the value obtained by dividing the fiber length by the number of glass fibers contained in Li by the total number of glass fibers measured. 【0090】 In the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of this embodiment, the glass fiber content is preferably 5 parts by mass or more, more preferably 10 parts by mass or more, and even more preferably 15 parts by mass or more, per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester. Furthermore, the glass fiber content is preferably 100 parts by mass or less, more preferably 85 parts by mass or less, and even more preferably 70 parts by mass or less, per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester. The above upper and lower limits can be combined arbitrarily. 【0091】 The following describes talc as a plate-shaped filler. 【0092】 The talc that can be used in this embodiment is a pulverized mineral composed of magnesium hydroxide and silicate minerals. Furthermore, the talc that can be used in this embodiment has a structure in which an octahedral structure composed of three magnesium (Mg) oxides is sandwiched between four tetrahedral structures formed by four silicon (Si) oxides. 【0093】 Known manufacturing methods for producing such talc include, for example, grinding methods using roller mills, Raymond mills, etc., impact grinding methods using atomizers, hammer mills, micron mills, etc., and impact grinding methods using jet mills, ball mills, etc., which are dry grinding methods. 【0094】 Alternatively, a wet grinding method may be used, in which the pulverized talc powder is dispersed with water to form a slurry with a fluid viscosity, and then ground using a ball mill, bead mill, wet jet mill, discoplex, etc. Among the above manufacturing methods, the dry grinding method is preferred because it is low-cost and readily available. 【0095】 The surface of the talc may be treated with a coupling agent or the like to improve the wettability between the talc and the liquid crystal polyester. Additionally, heat-treated talc may be used to remove impurities and harden the talc. Compressed talc may also be used to facilitate handling. 【0096】 The 45 μm sieve residue of talc is preferably 1.0% by mass or less. When the 45 μm sieve residue is 1.0% by mass or less, clogging in the thin-walled parts of the mold is suppressed when molding the pellets, improving moldability and improving the thin-walled strength of the resulting molded article. The 45 μm sieve residue contained in the talc is preferably 0.8% by mass or less, and more preferably 0.6% by mass or less, relative to the total amount of talc. 【0097】 In this specification, the 45 μm sieve residue of talc shall be the value measured in accordance with JIS K 5101-14-1 "Pigment Test Methods - Part 14: Sieve Residue - Section 1: Wet Method (Manual Method)". 【0098】 The talc preferably has a loss on ignition (Ig.Loss) of 7% by mass or less, more preferably 6% by mass or less, and particularly preferably 5% by mass or less. The lower the Ig.Loss, the more the decomposition of the liquid crystal polyester is suppressed, and the less likely blistering is to occur. In this invention, Ig.Loss is defined as a value measured in accordance with JIS M8853. 【0099】 In this embodiment, the volume-average particle size of talc is preferably 5.0 μm or more, more preferably 5.5 μm or more, and even more preferably 6.0 μm or more. Furthermore, the volume-average particle size is preferably 25 μm or less, more preferably 24.5 μm or less, and even more preferably 24 μm or less. The above upper and lower limits can be combined arbitrarily. 【0100】 In this embodiment, the volume-average particle size of talc can be measured by laser diffraction. Using the HORIBA LA-950V2 scattering particle size distribution analyzer, the volume-average particle size can be calculated under the following measurement conditions with talc dispersed in water. 【0101】 Measurement conditions Particle refractive index: 1.59-0.1i Dispersion medium: water Refractive index of dispersion medium: 1.33 【0102】 In the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of this embodiment, the talc content is preferably 5 parts by mass or more, more preferably 10 parts by mass or more, and particularly preferably 30 parts by mass or more, per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester. Furthermore, the talc content is preferably 100 parts by mass or less, more preferably 80 parts by mass or less, and particularly preferably 65 parts by mass or less, per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester. The above upper and lower limits can be combined arbitrarily. 【0103】 The following will explain mica as a plate-shaped filler. 【0104】 Mica is a pulverized silicate mineral containing aluminum, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, etc. Furthermore, mica is a mineral that forms an octahedral structure, consisting of two or three metal oxides / hydroxides sandwiched between four tetrahedral structures formed by oxides of three silicon atoms (Si) and one aluminum atom (Al). 【0105】 The mica that can be used in this embodiment may be muscovite, phlogopite, fluorphlogopite, tetrasilicate mica, or artificially produced synthetic mica. Two or more of these may be included. 【0106】 In this embodiment, it is preferable that the mica used consists substantially of muscovite alone. 【0107】 Examples of methods for producing mica that can be used in this embodiment include water jet pulverization, wet pulverization, dry ball mill pulverization, pressure roller mill pulverization, air jet mill pulverization, and dry pulverization using an impact pulverizer such as an atomizer. It is preferable to use mica produced by the wet pulverization method because it can pulverize the mica into a thin and fine powder. 【0108】 When using the wet grinding method, the mica is dispersed in water before grinding. To improve the dispersion efficiency of the mica before grinding, it is common to add additives such as polyaluminum chloride, aluminum sulfate, ferrous sulfate, ferric sulfate, coppalus chloride, polyferrous sulfate, polyferric chloride, iron-silica inorganic polymer flocculants, ferric chloride-silica inorganic polymer flocculants, slaked lime (Ca(OH)2), caustic soda (NaOH), and soda ash (Na2CO3) as flocculants and settling aids. However, these additives can cause decomposition of liquid crystal polyester. Therefore, it is preferable that the mica used in this embodiment is one that has not been treated with flocculants or settling aids during wet grinding. 【0109】 In this embodiment, the volume-average particle size of the mica is preferably 20 μm or more, more preferably 21 μm or more, and particularly preferably 22 μm or more. Furthermore, the volume-average particle size is preferably 45 μm or less, more preferably 44 μm or less, and particularly preferably 43 μm or less. The above upper and lower limits can be combined arbitrarily. 【0110】 In this embodiment, the volume average particle diameter of mica can be measured by the laser diffraction method. As a measuring device, using the scattering type particle size distribution measuring device "LA-950V2" manufactured by HORIBA, Ltd., the volume average particle diameter can be calculated under the following measurement conditions in a state where mica is dispersed in water. 【0111】 Measurement conditions Particle refractive index: 1.57 - 0.1i Dispersion medium: Water Dispersion medium refractive index: 1.33 【0112】 Mica having such a volume average particle diameter has good miscibility with the liquid crystal polyester, and can further improve the fluidity of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of this embodiment. 【0113】 In the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of this embodiment, the content of mica is preferably 5 parts by mass or more, more preferably 10 parts by mass or more, and still more preferably 30 parts by mass or more with respect to 100 parts by mass of the liquid crystal polyester. Also, the content of mica is preferably 100 parts by mass or less, more preferably 85 parts by mass or less, still more preferably 65 parts by mass or less, and particularly preferably 55 parts by mass or less with respect to 100 parts by mass of the liquid crystal polyester. The above upper limit value and lower limit value can be arbitrarily combined. A liquid crystal polyester pellet composition in which the content of mica is within such a range has high heat resistance of the molded product and can suppress the generation of blisters. 【0114】 [Organic filler] When the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition (pellet mixture) of this embodiment contains an organic filler, the content of the organic filler is preferably more than 0 parts by mass and 100 parts by mass or less with respect to 100 parts by mass of the liquid crystal polyester. The organic filler used in this embodiment may be a fibrous filler, a plate-like filler, or a granular filler. Examples of fibrous fillers include polyester fibers, aramid fibers, and cellulose fibers. Examples of granular fillers include insoluble and infusible polymers such as homopolymers of parahydroxybenzoic acid. 【0115】 ··Resin other than liquid crystal polyester Examples of resins other than liquid crystal polyester include polypropylene, polyamide, polyesters other than liquid crystal polyester, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethersulfone, polyetherketone, polycarbonate, polyphenylene ether, polyetherimide and other aromatic polysulfone-free thermoplastic resins; and thermosetting resins such as phenolic resins, epoxy resins, polyimide resins and cyanate resins. 【0116】 Additives well known in this field Examples of additives well known in this field include mold release agents such as fluorocarbons, higher fatty acids, higher fatty acid esters, higher alcohols, and metal soaps; colorants other than organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black; antioxidants, heat stabilizers, ultraviolet absorbers, antistatic agents, surfactants, flame retardants, flame retardant enhancers, and plasticizers. 【0117】 [Release agent] In this embodiment, the moldability of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition can be improved by including a release agent. Examples of release agents include tetrafluoroethylene; montanic acid or its salts, its esters or half-esters; stearyl alcohol, stearamide, polyethylene wax, etc. Preferably, fatty acid esters of tetrafluoroethylene or pentaerythritol are used. 【0118】 [Colorants other than organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black] Examples of colorants other than organic pigments, organic dyes, and carbon black include inorganic pigments such as titanium dioxide, iron oxide, lead oxide, chromium oxide, and ultramarine blue. 【0119】 [Antioxidants, heat stabilizers] In this embodiment, it is preferable to use, for example, hindered phenols, hydroquinones, phosphites, or substituted derivatives thereof as antioxidants or heat stabilizers. 【0120】 [UV absorber] In this embodiment, it is preferable to use, for example, resorcinol, salicylate, benzotriazole, or benzophenone as the ultraviolet absorber. 【0121】 The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of this embodiment may contain other components besides the first and second pellets. Examples of other components include fine powder or dust generated from the first and second pellets; pellets that do not fall under either the first or second pellets; and additives having an external lubricating effect, such as higher fatty acids, higher fatty acid esters, and fluorocarbon surfactants. 【0122】 As described above, in the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of one embodiment, a specific volume ratio is maintained between the first pellet containing liquid crystal polyester and the second pellet containing an organic pigment, organic dye, or carbon black and liquid crystal polyester. That is, the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition of this embodiment is a pellet mixture in which the volume ratio, expressed as the volume of the second pellet / the volume of the first pellet, is 2.3 or less. In this way, by mixing the first pellet and the second pellet, which satisfy the specific volume ratio, it is possible to manufacture injection molded products with suppressed variations in color tone. The reason for this effect is not entirely clear, but it can be speculated as follows: Unlike crystalline or amorphous resins, liquid crystal polyester is known to have low melt viscosity and excellent fluidity during melting, as well as a high shear dependence of viscosity. Therefore, by mixing pellets of a specific size (volume), the second pellet can spread more easily throughout the injection molding machine. This combination allows the first and second pellets to mix more uniformly, thus reducing variations in the color tone of the injection molded product. When the volume of the second pellet is large, due to the shear dependence of the viscosity of the liquid crystal polyester, only the resin on the surface of the second pellet melts in the injection molding machine. The pellet surface becomes covered with liquid crystal polyester with low melt viscosity, and the center of the pellet is not subjected to shear. As a result, the second pellet remains in an unmelted state, making it difficult to mix with the first pellet in the injection molding machine, which is presumed to lead to greater variations in the color tone of the molded product. 【0123】 The present invention also includes the following aspects. 【0124】 [5] A mixture containing a first pellet and a second pellet, The first pellet is a pellet containing liquid crystal polyester and a filler. The second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment or carbon black and a liquid crystal polyester (however, the second pellet is different from the first pellet), A liquid crystal polyester pellet composition having a volume ratio of 2.3 or less, expressed as the volume of the second pellet / volume of the first pellet. 【0125】 [6] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to [5], wherein the filler content in the first pellet is 20 to 120 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester in the first pellet. 【0126】 [7] The second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment and a liquid crystal polyester (but is different from the first pellet), The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to [5] or [6], wherein the content of the organic pigment in the second pellet is 1.5 to 40 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester in the second pellet. 【0127】 [8] The first pellet is a pellet in which the coloring agent content is 0% by mass or more and less than 5% by mass relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the first pellet, The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to any one of [5] to [7], wherein the second pellet contains an organic pigment, an organic dye, and carbon black in a total amount of 0.5% by mass or more relative to the total mass (100% by mass) of the second pellet. 【0128】 [9] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to any one of [5] to [8], wherein the content of the second pellet is 1 to 10 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the first pellet. 【0129】 (Injection molded product) An injection-molded article according to one aspect of the present invention is manufactured using the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to the above-described aspect of the present invention. 【0130】 An injection-molded product of one embodiment is formed using the above-described liquid crystal polyester pellet composition as the molding material by an injection molding method. Specifically, the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition is melted using a known injection molding machine, and the molten liquid crystal polyester pellet composition is injected into a mold to form the product. Examples of known injection molding machines include the PS40E5ASE hydraulic horizontal molding machine manufactured by Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd. 【0131】 It is preferable to set the cylinder temperature of the injection molding machine to a temperature 10 to 50°C higher than the flow start temperature of the liquid crystal polyester used. From the viewpoint of the cooling rate of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition and productivity, it is preferable to set the mold temperature in the range of room temperature (e.g., 23°C) to 180°C. 【0132】 According to the injection-molded product of the embodiment described above, since the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to the present invention is used, variations in color tone from one molded product to another are suppressed. Therefore, such injection-molded products offer enhanced aesthetic appeal and enable applications in the field of cosmetic components. 【0133】 An injection-molded article according to one aspect of the present invention can be used in any application where liquid crystal polyester can be applied. Examples include interior components for various electrical and electronic equipment, automobile parts, home appliance parts, industrial machinery parts, and daily necessities. In particular, such an injection-molded article is useful in applications where colored products are used and is suitable for handling color variations. Examples of the aforementioned electrical and electronic equipment include cameras, personal computers, mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, printers, and projectors. Examples of internal components for such electrical and electronic equipment include connectors, camera modules, blower fans, and fixing components for printers. In addition, such injection-molded products can be suitably used in automotive electrical and electronic equipment. 【0134】 The present invention also includes the following aspects. 【0135】

[10] An injection-molded article made using any one of the liquid crystal polyester pellet compositions described in [5] to [9] above. [Examples] 【0136】 The present invention will be described below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. 【0137】 <Raw materials used> The liquid crystal polyester, organic pigment, and filler used in this example are shown below. 【0138】 • Liquid crystal polyester Liquid crystal polyesters (1) to (3) obtained in the following manufacturing examples 1 to 3 were used. 【0139】 [Manufacturing Example 1 (Manufacturing of Liquid Crystal Polyester (1))] In a reactor equipped with a stirrer, torque meter, nitrogen gas inlet tube, thermometer, and reflux condenser, 994.5 g (7.2 mol) of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, 446.9 g (2.4 mol) of 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl, 239.2 g (1.44 mol) of terephthalic acid, 159.5 g (0.96 mol) of isophthalic acid, and 1347.6 g (13.2 mol) of acetic anhydride were added. After replacing the gas in the reactor with nitrogen gas, 0.2 g of 1-methylimidazole was added, and the temperature was raised from room temperature to 150°C over 30 minutes while stirring under a nitrogen gas stream, and then refluxed at 150°C for 30 minutes. Next, 0.9 g of 1-methylimidazole was added, and the temperature was raised from 150°C to 320°C over 2 hours and 50 minutes while distilling off the by-product acetic acid and unreacted acetic anhydride. When an increase in torque was observed, the contents were removed from the reactor and cooled to room temperature to obtain a solid prepolymer. The obtained solid was pulverized to a particle size of 0.1 to 1 mm using a pulverizer, and then solid-phase polymerization was carried out by raising the temperature from room temperature to 220°C over 1 hour under a nitrogen atmosphere, raising the temperature from 220°C to 240°C over 30 minutes, and holding at 240°C for 10 hours. The obtained solid-phase polymer was cooled to room temperature to obtain powdered liquid crystal polyester (1). The flow initiation temperature of the obtained liquid crystal polyester (1) was 286°C. 【0140】 In this embodiment, the flow initiation temperature of the liquid crystal polyester was measured as follows. Using a flow tester (Shimadzu Corporation's "CFT-500EX" model), approximately 2g of liquid crystal polyester was filled into a cylinder fitted with a die having a nozzle with an inner diameter of 1mm and a length of 10mm. Under a load of 9.8MPa, the liquid crystal polyester was melted while the temperature was increased at a rate of 4°C / min, and extruded from the nozzle. The temperature at which a viscosity of 4800 Pa·s was observed was measured and defined as the flow initiation temperature. 【0141】 The obtained liquid crystal polyester (1) has Ar in relation to the total amount of all repeating units.1 60 mol% of the repeating unit (1) which is a 1,4-phenylene group, Ar 2 The repeating unit (2) is a 1,3-phenylene group, and Ar 2 12 mol% of the repeating unit (2) which is a 1,4-phenylene group, and Ar 3 The compound has a 4,4'-biphenylylene group and contains 20 mol% of a repeating unit (3) in which X and Y are oxygen atoms. 【0142】 [Manufacturing Example 2 (Manufacturing of Liquid Crystal Polyester (2))] In a reactor equipped with a stirrer, torque meter, nitrogen gas inlet tube, thermometer, and reflux condenser, 994.5 g (7.2 mol) of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, 446.9 g (2.4 mol) of 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl, 299.0 g (1.8 mol) of terephthalic acid, 99.7 g (0.6 mol) of isophthalic acid, and 1347.6 g (13.2 mol) of acetic anhydride were charged. 0.2 g of 1-methylimidazole was added as a catalyst, and the reactor was thoroughly purged with nitrogen gas. Then, under a nitrogen gas stream, the temperature was raised from room temperature to 150°C over 30 minutes while stirring, and the temperature was maintained under reflux for 30 minutes. Next, 0.9 g of 1-methylimidazole was added, and the temperature was raised from 150°C to 320°C over 2 hours and 50 minutes while distilling off the by-product acetic acid and unreacted acetic anhydride. After holding at 320°C for 30 minutes, the contents were removed and cooled to room temperature. The obtained solid was pulverized to a particle size of 0.1 to 1 mm using a pulverizer, and then solid-phase polymerization was carried out under a nitrogen atmosphere by raising the temperature from room temperature to 250°C over 1 hour, raising the temperature from 250°C to 285°C over 5 hours, and holding at 285°C for 3 hours. After solid-phase polymerization, the mixture was cooled to obtain powdered liquid crystal polyester (2). The flow initiation temperature of the obtained liquid crystal polyester (2) was 327°C. 【0143】 The obtained liquid crystal polyester (2) has Ar in relation to the total amount of all repeating units. 1 60 mol% of the repeating unit (1) which is a 1,4-phenylene group, Ar 2 5 mol% of the repeating unit (2) which is a 1,3-phenylene group, Ar2 15 mol% of the repeating unit (2) which is a 1,4-phenylene group, and Ar 3 The compound has a 4,4'-biphenylylene group and contains 20 mol% of a repeating unit (3) in which X and Y are oxygen atoms. 【0144】 [Manufacturing Example 3 (Manufacturing of Liquid Crystal Polyester (3))] In a reactor equipped with a stirrer, torque meter, nitrogen gas inlet tube, thermometer, and reflux condenser, 994.5 g (7.2 mol) of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, 446.9 g (2.4 mol) of 4,4'-dihydroxybiphenyl, 299.0 g (1.8 mol) of terephthalic acid, 99.7 g (0.6 mol) of isophthalic acid, and 1347.6 g (13.2 mol) of acetic anhydride were charged. 0.2 g of 1-methylimidazole was added as a catalyst, and the reactor was thoroughly purged with nitrogen gas. Then, under a nitrogen gas stream, the temperature was raised from room temperature to 150°C over 30 minutes while stirring, and the temperature was maintained under reflux for 30 minutes. Next, while distilling off the by-product acetic acid and unreacted acetic anhydride, the temperature was raised from 150°C to 320°C over 2 hours and 50 minutes, and after holding at 320°C for 30 minutes, the contents were removed and cooled to room temperature. The obtained solid was pulverized to a particle size of 0.1 to 1 mm using a pulverizer, and then solid-phase polymerization was carried out by raising the temperature from room temperature to 250°C over 1 hour under a nitrogen atmosphere, raising the temperature from 250°C to 295°C over 5 hours, and holding at 295°C for 3 hours. After solid-phase polymerization, the mixture was cooled to obtain powdered liquid crystal polyester (3). The flow initiation temperature of the obtained liquid crystal polyester (3) was 333°C. 【0145】 The obtained liquid crystal polyester (3) has Ar in relation to the total amount of all repeating units. 1 60 mol% of the repeating unit (1) which is a 1,4-phenylene group, Ar 2 5 mol% of the repeating unit (2) which is a 1,3-phenylene group, Ar 2 15 mol% of the repeating unit (2) which is a 1,4-phenylene group, and Ar 3 The compound has a 4,4'-biphenylylene group and contains 20 mol% of a repeating unit (3) in which X and Y are oxygen atoms. 【0146】 • Organic pigments Organic pigment (1): PV Fast Red B, manufactured by Clariant, decomposition onset temperature (5% mass weight loss) 475°C, melting point above 400°C. Organic pigment (2): polysyntheren Yellow NG, manufactured by Clariant, decomposition onset temperature (5% weight loss by mass) 407°C, melting point approximately 325°C Organic pigment (3): PV Fast Blue BG, manufactured by Clariant, decomposition onset temperature (5% weight loss by mass) 463°C, melting point approximately 320°C Organic pigment (4): PV Fast Red E5B, manufactured by Clariant, decomposition onset temperature (5% mass weight loss) 443°C, melting point above 400°C. Organic pigment (5): PV Fast Orange GRL, manufactured by Clariant, decomposition onset temperature (5% weight loss by mass) 454°C, melting point approximately 280°C Organic pigment (6): PV Fast Brown 3RL, manufactured by Clariant, decomposition onset temperature (5% weight loss by mass) 457°C, melting point approximately 365°C 【0147】 · Filler Glass fiber (1): EFH75-01, manufactured by Central Glass Co., Ltd., number average fiber length 75 μm, fiber diameter 10 μm Glass fiber (2): CS3J260S, manufactured by Nitto Boseki Co., Ltd., number average fiber length 3 mm, number average fiber diameter 11 μm 【0148】 <Example of the first pellet manufacturing process> The first pellet was manufactured by mixing liquid crystal polyester and filler in the proportions shown in Table 1. Specifically, liquid crystal polyester and filler were melt-kneaded in the proportions shown in Table 1 using a twin-screw extruder (Ikegai Co., Ltd., "PCM-30") under conditions of a cylinder temperature of 340°C and a screw rotation speed of 150 rpm to obtain a molten compound. Next, the resulting molten mixture was extruded in strand form through a circular discharge port, cooled, and then pelletized to obtain the first pellets (1) and (2), respectively. 【0149】 <Example of second pellet manufacturing> The second pellet was produced by mixing liquid crystal polyester and organic pigment in the proportions shown in Table 2. Specifically, liquid crystal polyester and organic pigment were melt-kneaded in the proportions shown in Table 2 using a twin-screw extruder (Ikegai Co., Ltd., "PCM-30") under conditions of a cylinder temperature of 340°C and a screw rotation speed of 150 rpm to obtain a molten mixture. Next, the resulting molten mixture was extruded in strand form through a circular discharge port, cooled, and then pelletized to obtain second pellets (1) to (8), respectively. During the production of each pellet, pellets of different sizes were obtained by adjusting the extrusion conditions (draw strength, temperature) from the circular discharge port of the molten mixture and the strand cutting conditions (speed of the pelletizer's rotating blades). 【0150】 [Total weight of 100 pellets] From each of the first and second pellets obtained in the above pellet manufacturing examples, 100 pellets were randomly selected, and the total weight of these 100 pellets was measured. The average values ​​of three such measurements are shown in Tables 1 and 2. 【0151】 [Specific gravity of molded products] The first and second pellets obtained in the above pellet manufacturing example were injection molded using an injection molding machine (Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd., "PS40E5ASE model") under the conditions of a cylinder temperature of 350°C, a mold temperature of 120°C, and an injection rate of 75 mm / s to obtain ASTM No. 4 dumbbells (molded products). The specific gravity of the obtained molded products was then measured at 23°C using an automatic specific gravity measuring device (Kanto Major Co., Ltd., "ASG-320K"). The measurement results are shown in Tables 1 and 2. 【0152】 [Total volume of 100 pellets] The total volume of 100 pellets was calculated from the total weight of 100 pellets and the specific gravity of the molded product, using the formula: total weight of 100 pellets / specific gravity of the molded product. The results of this calculation are shown in Tables 1 and 2. 【0153】 [Table 1] 【0154】 [Table 2] 【0155】 <Manufacturing of liquid crystal polyester pellet compositions> (Examples 1-8, Comparative Examples 1-2) The first and second pellets obtained in the above pellet manufacturing example were mixed in the proportions shown in Table 3, and mixed for 10 minutes at a rotation speed of 30 revolutions per minute using a tumbler mixer (PLAENG, "SKD-25") to obtain the liquid crystal polyester pellet compositions of each example, consisting of the pellet mixture. In Table 3, "Volume of second pellet / Volume of first pellet" is the value obtained by dividing the total volume of 100 pellets in the second pellet shown in Table 2 by the total volume of 100 pellets in the first pellet shown in Table 1 (volume ratio). 【0156】 <Manufacturing of injection-molded products> Each example of the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition was injection molded using an injection molding machine (Nissei Plastic Industrial Co., Ltd., "PS40E5ASE model") under the conditions of a cylinder temperature of 350°C, a mold temperature of 120°C, and an injection rate of 75 mm / s, yielding 20 injection molded products in the plate shape shown below. Shape of injection-molded product: 64mm x 64mm x 1mm, ASTM No. 4 dumbbell 【0157】 <Rating> For 20 injection-molded parts with dimensions of 64mm x 64mm x 1mm, the lightness (L*: SCE method) was measured using a colorimeter (Konica Minolta, Inc., "CM-3600d") under the measurement conditions described below, according to the L*a*b* color system. The standard deviation (L*σ) of the lightness for the 20 injection-molded parts was then calculated and the values ​​are shown in Table 3. Measurement conditions: Illumination and receiving optical system D65, C light source, observation field 10°, and measurement diameter 25.4 mm. Wavelengths below 400 nm are cut off. Measurement is taken near the center of a 64 mm x 64 mm surface in an injection molded product. A smaller standard deviation of brightness (L*σ) indicates that the variation in color tone between injection-molded products is suppressed. 【0158】 [Table 3] 【0159】 As shown in Table 3, the results confirm that injection molded articles produced using the liquid crystal polyester pellet compositions of Examples 1 to 8 to which the present invention is applied show less variation in color tone between individual molded articles compared to injection molded articles produced using the liquid crystal polyester pellet compositions of Comparative Examples 1 to 2. 【0160】 Figure 1 is a graph of the results shown in Table 3, illustrating the relationship between the volume ratio, expressed as "second pellet volume / first pellet volume," and the standard deviation of brightness (L*σ). In Figure 1, the horizontal axis represents the volume ratio, expressed as the volume of the second pellet / the volume of the first pellet. The vertical axis represents the standard deviation of brightness (L*σ). The standard deviation of brightness changes significantly around a volume ratio of 2.3.

Claims

[Claim 1] It contains a first pellet and a second pellet, The first pellet is a pellet containing liquid crystal polyester, The second pellet is a pellet containing an organic pigment, an organic dye, or carbon black and a liquid crystal polyester (however, the second pellet is different from the first pellet), The total volume of the 100 pellets constituting the second pellet is 2.19 cm³ or less. A liquid crystal polyester pellet composition having a volume ratio, expressed as second pellet volume / first pellet volume, of 0.9 or more and 2.3 or less. [Claim 2] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to claim 1, wherein the total content of the organic pigment, organic dye, and carbon black in the second pellet is 1.5 to 40 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester in the second pellet. [Claim 3] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the content of the second pellet is 1 to 10 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of the first pellet. [Claim 4] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first pellet comprises liquid crystal polyester and a filler. [Claim 5] The liquid crystal polyester pellet composition according to claim 4, wherein the filler content in the first pellet is 20 to 120 parts by mass per 100 parts by mass of liquid crystal polyester in the first pellet. [Claim 6] An injection-molded article made using the liquid crystal polyester pellet composition described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

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